Sheila Hylan, 86, of Southbury, formerly of Newtown, died peacefully July 6, 2026 after a long illness. She was born on November 29, 1939, in Birmingham, United Kingdom, daughter of Lillian (Reeves) Mayors and William Mayors.

Sheila emigrated to the United States in the late 1950s and ultimately settled in Newtown with her beloved husband Edward ("Ed"), raising their two children, Leisa and Paul. It was there that she and Ed turned their love and passion for antiques into a business known as Red House Antiques. Starting in 1975, and continuing for the next 35 years, they traveled from Lancaster, PA, to Nantucket, MA, buying, refinishing, and selling antique furniture, specializing in primitive pre-1800 furniture.

They soon became experts in this area as their dreams took them on a journey of a lifetime. Sheila loved her Yorkshire terriers who would often accompany her and Ed on their many travels.

Before retiring to Southbury, Sheila became a United States citizen. It was one of the proudest moments of her life.

Sheila was a loving mom and wife. Her charm and wit touched many lives along the way including her extended antiques family. She also dearly loved her family in the United Kingdom, returning often to be with them and share special moments.

She is survived by her son, Paul (Carol) Desmarais of Somers, N.Y.; daughter, Leisa of Port Saint Lucie, FL; and many nephews and nieces in the United Kingdom.

She was predeceased by her parents; a brother, Ronald Mayors; and a sister, Violet James.

A visitation will be held from 10-11 am Friday, July 10, 2026 at Carpino Funeral Home, 750 Main Street South, Southbury. Interment will immediately follow at Pine Hill Cemetery, 2-98 Pine Hill Road, Southbury. To leave a message of remembrance, please visit CarpinoCares.com.

The Newtown Bee July 10, 2026